What Clean Beauty Really Means (and How to Avoid Greenwashing)

person with moonflora botanics revive body oil sticking out of their pocket standing outside for a blog about how to avoid greenwashing
Quick summary: “Clean beauty” sounds good in theory. But without regulations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, confused, or even misled. Lets break down what clean beauty means to Moonflora, how to avoid greenwashing while shopping, and why transparency matters more than trendy buzzwords.

What does "clean beauty" actually mean? The short answer: it depends who you ask.

There’s no universal definition for clean beauty, which means brands can shape the term to fit their own marketing. Some define it based on what ingredients are not included. Others lean into natural-sounding labels without disclosing what’s really in the bottle. The result is an industry filled with big promises and little accountability.

Why Moonflora Keeps It Clear

We created Moonflora out of frustration with the “clean” skincare space. Too many brands made things confusing or performed like watered-down versions of what your skin actually needed. So we went in the opposite direction.

Our formulas are simple, but not basic. They’re curated with purpose, designed to support your ritual, and made with transparency in mind. We don’t make blanket claims because no product works for everyone. But we do promise to tell you exactly what’s inside and why it’s there.

How to Avoid Greenwashing When Shopping for Skincare

Learning how to avoid greenwashing is less about memorizing ingredient lists and more about spotting red flags. Here are a few ways to shop smarter:

1. Look past the buzzwords.

Words like “natural,” “clean,” and “pure” sound appealing, but they’re often unregulated. Always check the full ingredient list and look for transparency.

2. Beware of “free of” marketing.

“Free of parabens” doesn’t mean the product is actually safer or better. Focus on what is in the formula, not just what’s missing.

3. Watch for vague claims.

If a brand makes bold promises without data or clear information, that’s a sign to dig deeper. Transparency should never feel hard to find.

4. Research the brand’s values.

What does the brand stand for? Do they explain their sourcing? Their formulation process? A brand that cares will show you, not just tell you.

Clean Skincare That Feels Like You

Clean doesn’t need to mean clinical. We believe skincare should feel like a ritual, not a chore. It should look good on your shelf, smell like something you actually want to put on your body, and support your skin’s natural rhythm.

Our body oil is thoughtfully blended to deliver moisture, glow, and calm in one step. They don’t rely on fillers or fluff. Just pure, potent botanicals that feel good to use and align with the values you care about.

FAQs: What You Should Know About Clean Beauty

What is greenwashing in skincare?

  • Greenwashing is when brands use misleading terms or visuals to make products seem more natural or eco-conscious than they actually are. It creates confusion and often hides a lack of true transparency.

How can I tell if a product is really clean?

  • Start by checking if the brand shares full ingredient lists and explains the role of each ingredient. Look for minimal, purposeful formulas and clear sourcing practices. If the product feels aligned with your skin and your values, that’s a good sign.

Is clean skincare always better for sensitive skin?

  • Not always. Even natural ingredients like essential oils or coconut-based oils can be irritating for some people. Moonflora’s formulas are made with balance and skin safety in mind, but always patch test if your skin is prone to sensitivities.

Clean Beauty Shouldn’t be a Guessing Game

Once you know how to avoid greenwashing and what to look for in a brand, your skincare choices become more aligned with your values and your skin. Moonflora exists to support your ritual without noise, confusion, or compromise. You don’t need 12 steps to feel good in your skin. Just a few quality products that do what they say, and let you glow the way you want to.